DIY Suede and Gold Leaf Polka Dot Mousepad

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I know what you’re thinking. And no, I’m never going to stop with the gold leaf DIYs. It’s the best thing in the world, so just get on board you guys. Okay, glad we had that talk.

Now! I found myself recently bemoaning the fact that my mousepad was old and icky and had seen waaaay better days. It still functioned, but man did it look gross. So it was retouch time. If you’ve got an old mousepad that needs a little zhush (how do you spell that?) or a mousepad that just ain’t cute, this is the DIY for you. Gather your materials:

old mousepad

enough suede (or leather, or faux leather — you get the idea) to cover the mousepad

scissors

pen

freezer paper

hole punch

iron

ModPodge

gold leaf

two craft paintbrushes

spray adhesive

Start by tracing your mousepad onto the backside of your suede, and cutting it out. Set that aside. Punch holes in your freezer paper and cut a small square around each hole. Place them strategically on the front side of your suede, and iron them shiny side down so that they stick.

Next, use a paintbrush to paint ModPodge inside of each hole. While it’s wet, apply a small patch of gold leaf. Pat the gold leaf down with a dry paintbrush.

Let the ModPodge dry for about 30 minutes and carefully remove the freezer paper, being careful to keep the edges of the polka dot intact. Let the glue dry overnight before you use the mousepad, and be sure to dust off all remnants of the gold leaf, to keep your mouse safe.

Finally, cover the back of the suede with spray adhesive and affix it to your old mousepad. Be sure that you match the edges well before you press firmly.

Woah! So much better. And now it’s like a little polka dot party every time I use my computer. Have fun! xoxo